By Roger White-Q101 Merritt

Counterfeit Money

Counterfeit money circulating in Merritt

Dec 5, 2025 | 11:27 AM

MERRITT, B.C. — A Merritt business is warning others in the community that counterfeit money is circulating in the region. 

Sonya and Bobby Garcia, proprietors of Yaki Joe’s Pizzeria in Merritt and Kamloops, said Tuesday (Dec. 2) that their Merritt location was the victim of receiving bogus bills. 

“Unfortunately, our business received a counterfeit $50 bill, and we have heard from other businesses that have also been scammed,” Bobby Garcia told Q101 Merritt. 

Merritt RCMP S/Sgt. Josh Roda encouraged all businesses in Merritt to remain vigilant when handling cash transactions. 

“Counterfeit currency does surface from time to time, and the best protection is awareness,” Roda said. 

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Roda encouraged all staff at local businesses to take a moment to inspect the bills, 

“If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and don’t hesitate to refuse the bill.” Roda added.” We also ask businesses to report any suspected counterfeit notes to police right away, as this helps us track patterns and protect the wider community.” 

Yaki Joe’s Pizzeria was not the only business recently exposed to fake currency. Kekuli Cafe also received a phony $50 bill, as well as Save On Foods. 

In 2024, the Bank of Canada reported that the volume of counterfeit notes decreased by 64 per cent compared to numbers in 2014. 

Roda noted that with the Christmas season fast approaching, residents and business owners should keep safety top of mind.